Source : Freemans Historic USS Constitution Colors

Unique collection of historic and rare naval flags from one of the most
revered patrons and collectors of American art, the late H. Richard
Dietrich, Jr., on Monday, April 30, 2012 following the American
Furniture, Silver and Decorative Arts auction. Included are some of the
earliest known and significant patterns of our Nation’s naval ensigns
from our country’s most iconic ship, the USS Constitution. This
exceptional grouping of 12 flags spanning six decades has been in
private hands for more than 150 years and never been on the open market.
Dietrich’s ambition and foresight to preserve American history through
material culture combined with his lifelong passion for the sea has
secured the survival of these flags; the ensigns are testaments to
American pride, patriotism and preservation.